Melbourne, Jan. 15 : Australian police have vowed to crack down on troublemakers at the Australian Open tennis tournament this year, following two years of racially charged violence.

The Australian quoted Victoria Police Superintendent John Cooke, as saying there would be more uniform and plainclothes officers and security working there than ever before when the tournament starts next Monday.

"I wouldn''t say it''s reflective of any particular issue, the event changes from year to year and we work on a risk assessment process with Tennis Australia,'''' he said today.

"People that misbehave should understand there are consequences and it''s most likely they will find themselves outside the arena with a $227 ticket in their hand,'''' he added.

Cooke ruled out segregating supporters, despite a riot in 2007 involving Serbian and Croatian fans, but said ticket-holders had to comply with set conditions and not break the law or spoil the experience for others.

Cooke said anyone caught committing offences could be arrested, ejected, fined or banned for 24 hours. (ANI)